Abramoff Pleads Not Guilty

Scandalized lobbyist and DeLay pal Jack Abramoff pleaded not guilty today to charges that he defrauded lenders in a casino cruise line deal. Abramoff and his partner, Adam Kidan, were indicted earlier this month by a federal grand jury on conspiracy and wire fraud charges.

According to Reuters: "The case has attracted particular attention because Abramoff is a prominent political fund-raiser and close friend of DeLay, a Texas Republican. DeLay has faced questions about whether some of his travel expenses were paid by Abramoff, which would violate House rules. DeLay has denied knowing any expenses were paid by the lobbyist."